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City hall planning boss John Fleming called it a “gut-check meeting” — the first of several public-input sessions for Londoners to weigh in on the London Plan, a blueprint for city growth over the next 20 years. With more than 100 citizens packing the council gallery, here’s a sampling of what they told politicians Monday night.

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“We can’t just sit back and wait for staff to come up with a brainwave. It takes leadership from our councillors and our mayor. I think this city needs a new hero to . . . have vision and (consider) the tangible things entrepreneurs bring to the table.”

Alex Sumner, developer

“You decided to consult the highest office holders in the land — the citizens of London. This was a courageous move. If this council wants to reverse the trend of talent loss, then we strongly encourage you to endorse this plan.”

Sean Quigley, executive director of Emerging Leaders

“We think gender and the way women and men use the city differently haven’t been considered enough (so far in the plan’s creation). Unless gender is explicitly looked at, the default is that men and women are essentially the same.”

Shawna Lewkowitz, Woman and Politics London

“The magic of final touches (to the London Plan) should be left to the builders and developers that actually create our communities.”

Peter Sergautis, realtor

“I don’t support the London Plan because it’s going to give us a decent city. I support (it because) it’s going to let us build our own city, and I think it’s going to be incredible.”

Benjamin Vazquez, Old East Village Community Association

“We’re not asking city council to take on this plan alone. What we are asking you to do is to take the vision, put it up on the board and let us rally behind you. I think this plan, if put forward, will ignite a spark in this city.”

Planning staff told city council to not rush final approval of the London Plan in this council term that ends Dec. 1. Planners need more time to consult citizens, businesses and other stakeholders, so final approval is more likely in February or March 2015.